READ: Review, This Fine Life by Eva Marie Everson (Revell, 2010)
Little things make a big difference. As a writer, as a parent, and as a Christ-follower, I believe and teach this truth. Eva Marie Everson’s shining new novel, This Fine Life, demonstrates it on multiple levels.
Mariette Puttnam, a recent graduate of a proper Southern boarding school for proper Southern girls, returns home for the summer of 1959. Life’s inviting road stretches before her, with conflicting opinions from both her parents as to where it should lead. Her confusion becomes consternation, then delight when a chance encounter leads to a destiny-defining relationship. Little things make a big difference.
As Mariette moves from pampered daughter to bewildered newlywed to reluctant pastor’s wife, she becomes an easy target for the more plain-spoken members of her new church family. Their public welcome gives way to not-so-private comments about the qualities which (in their minds) render her less than ideal. Will God use her weakness to show forth His strength? Little things—and people—make a big difference. And that’s the fine of This Fine Life.
Vibrant, compelling characters; believable dialogue; tender, accurate setting; and a page-turning, heart-twisting plot prove once again that Everson can tell a story—and a beautiful one at that. She wraps this latest reader-gift with redemption, adds a ribbon of grace, and tops it with a lovely Southern bow. The only thing missing from This Fine Life? A sequel.
Little things make a big difference. That’s why you’ll want to pick up your own copy soon.
Marti, thank you so much. I’m more than honored that my work touched your life.
Read on…
Eva Marie Everson
Author
This Fine Life
You’re welcome, Eva Marie. And I will.
I’m loving this book (not quite finished; review to come next week), and one of the things I like about it is how Eva weaves a normal sense of humor into the lives of their characters. Young boys say the right things at the wrong time, feet trip when they shouldn’t – it’s part of what keeps the story grounded.
I agree, Ramona. That’s part of what makes the story come to life. Thanks for sharing your thoughts; I’ll look forward to reading yours!